Matthew 6:1-3 - Almsgiving: Public or Private?

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Aug 18 05 5:11 PM

Q: In Matthew 6:1-3, Jesus tells us to avoid giving alms before men in order to be seen by them. But in Matthew 5:16, He tells His listeners to let their light shine in such a way that men might see their good works and glorify their heavenly Father. So, should we let others see our good works?

A: When we give alms, it should not be ostentatious or self-glorifying. If we are noticed, we ought to give thanks to God for the means and opportunity to share His gifts. This does not mean that we ought to avoid doing good in public; it means that we should avoid doing good works in public /that result in our glory rather than Gods./ See the comments on Matthew 5:16.